As a Latino male LCSW therapist, I bring a rich background of experience and education to my practice. Having studied at Columbia University, I have honed my skills to provide comprehensive support to individuals from diverse backgrounds. My professional journey has led me to work extensively with children and families within the child welfare system, justice-involved individuals, and those grappling with substance abuse, codependency, intimacy issues, LGBTQIA+ identities, and life transitions. Utilizing a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness techniques, and trauma-focused approaches, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. My practice is deeply rooted in a commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and I strive to create a safe and affirming space for all clients. With a strong emphasis on social justice and advocacy, I am dedicated to addressing systemic barriers and promoting positive change within both the therapeutic setting and the broader community. My goal is to empower clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, self-awareness, and compassion, fostering growth and transformation along the way.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In the first session with a client, I, as the therapist, take a humanistic approach focused on creating a safe and welcoming space for the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Central to my therapeutic philosophy, which I've coined as "no bullcrap, but with love," is the belief in authenticity, honesty, and genuine connection. As the client enters the therapy room, I greet them warmly and invite them to take a seat in a comfortable and inviting environment. I aim to establish rapport and build trust from the outset, emphasizing my commitment to their well-being and growth. During the initial moments of the session, I take the time to explain my therapeutic approach, emphasizing the core principles of honesty, transparency, and unconditional positive regard. I reassure the client that they can expect a judgment-free zone where they can speak openly and honestly without fear of criticism or rejection. I make it clear that while I won't sugarcoat or gloss over difficult topics, my approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and respect for the client's autonomy. I affirm my dedication to supporting them in their journey towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Throughout the session, I actively listen to the client's concerns, validating their experiences and offering empathy and understanding. I encourage them to express themselves authentically, reassuring them that their thoughts and feelings are valid and worthy of exploration. In line with my "no bullcrap, but with love" approach, I gently challenge any self-limiting beliefs or defense mechanisms that may be hindering the client's progress. However, I do so with kindness and compassion, always mindful of the client's emotional vulnerability and need for validation. As the session comes to a close, I express gratitude to the client for their courage in seeking therapy and assure them that they are not alone in their journey. I reaffirm my commitment to supporting them every step of the way, offering encouragement and hope for the future. Overall, my first session with a client emphasizes the importance of authenticity, honesty, and unconditional positive regard, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts and emotions with courage and vulnerability.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My greatest strength as a therapist lies in my ability to create an authentic and welcoming therapeutic space where clients feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued. I've coined my approach as "no bullcrap, but with love," which reflects my commitment to honesty, transparency, and compassion in therapy. From the moment clients enter my therapy room, I strive to establish a connection built on trust and empathy. I greet them warmly and make it clear that they are entering a judgment-free zone where they can express themselves openly and honestly. Throughout our sessions, I listen actively and attentively, validating clients' experiences and offering empathy and understanding. My genuine interest in their well-being shines through as I encourage them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with courage and vulnerability. I believe in the power of honesty and directness in therapy, but always with a foundation of kindness and compassion. I gently challenge clients when necessary, helping them confront self-limiting beliefs or defense mechanisms that may be holding them back, while also providing unwavering support and encouragement. Clients appreciate my authentic approach and feel empowered to engage fully in the therapeutic process. They know that I am there for them every step of the way, offering guidance, validation, and hope for the future. Overall, my greatest strength as a therapist is my genuine and heartfelt commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their innermost thoughts and emotions with courage and vulnerability. Through my authenticity, compassion, and unwavering support, I empower clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience, self-awareness, and confidence.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

As a therapist specializing in substance use, codependency, trauma, depression, and anxiety, I am uniquely positioned to serve a diverse range of clients seeking support and guidance in overcoming these challenges. My practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to individuals grappling with substance misuse or addiction. Whether clients are struggling with alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors, I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and healing. Through personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, I help them develop coping strategies, build resilience, and embark on the journey towards recovery. Additionally, I specialize in addressing codependency issues, which often coexist with substance use disorders. I assist clients in understanding the dynamics of codependent relationships, setting healthy boundaries, and reclaiming their autonomy and self-worth. By fostering self-awareness and empowering clients to prioritize their own needs and well-being, I support them in breaking free from dysfunctional patterns and fostering healthier, more fulfilling connections with others. Furthermore, my expertise extends to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, whether from childhood abuse, interpersonal violence, or other traumatic events. I offer trauma-informed therapy aimed at helping clients process their experiences, manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and regain a sense of safety and empowerment. Through modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I assist clients in reclaiming their lives and finding healing from past wounds. In addition to substance use, codependency, and trauma, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety disorders, which often co-occur with these issues. Whether clients are struggling with persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, or experiencing overwhelming worry and fear, I provide evidence-based interventions to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Through cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, and emotion-focused therapy, I empower clients to challenge negative thought patterns, cultivate self-compassion, and develop effective coping skills for managing distress. Overall, my therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and respect for each client's unique journey. By offering a supportive

About Joshua Acosta-Duque